Hi folks.
I’m Alex, and i’m the creator of this blog. In it, i’m hoping to cover the things i’m doing to convert a 1985 Honda VF500F “Interceptor” gas powered motorcycle to an all electric version.
I couldn’t have done this without the help of some truly awesome folks over at http://www.elmoto.net.
Let me know if you have any questions, i’m more than happy to answer them.
Thanks for reading.
…tango…
Alex,
I have been following your blog and your posts on elmoto.net lately. I have always wanted to try my own conversion but have never had the opportunity. I have been a ducati sportbike enthusiasts and rider for over 20 yrs and have had more than a passing interest in EVs. I presently own a Ford Ranger EV and a Vectrix scooter which are charged off my home’s PV system. Your blog and posts have inspired me but I am more than a little hesitant by the technical difficulties. I have recently acquired a 1991 Ducati 907ie Paso that I think would be an ideal conversion. I am a physician with rudimentary electrical and mechanical skills that may not be adequate for a big project like this but I think it would be quite the learning experience. Do you have any advice before I undertake this project? If you are familiar with the Paso, do you have any suggestions on which components that you would use?
Thanks,
Lance Budris MD
Hi Lance. Sorry, i didn’t see your comment until just now.
Working on an electric motorcycle is something that is pretty new to me too. I was hesitant, but felt that if i took it slow, it would be possible. The good thing about electric vehicles is that the drive system is considerably less complex than an internal combustion drive system. The main parts are the batteries, motor controller, and controller. There are a bunch of other items that you’ll need, but conceptually there isn’t that much to it.
Since you already have a Vectrix (Nice, BTW!) and an ICE moto, you probably already have an understanding of what a moto vs. an electric moto can do.
So, suggestions on what to do next. A couple of things, one of the first things i’d suggest is to get yourself an account on Elmoto.net (http://www.elmoto.net), and introduce yourself and your desired project. There are a bunch of very helpful and knowledgeable people on that site, and i most certainly would not have even attempted my build without their assistance.
There are a couple of books you can read such as “Build your own Electric Vehicle” (http://www.amazon.com/Build-Your-Own-Electric-Vehicle/dp/0071543732/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1268006172&sr=8-1). I’ve got a couple others, though personally, i find them pretty repetitive, so one is often enough. There’s another book that’s specifically for motorcycles (http://www.amazon.com/Build-Electric-Motorcycle-Green-Guides/dp/0071622934/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1268006202&sr=1-1), and also “Secrets of El Ninja” (i don’t have that one…but i’ve heard it’s pretty good).
Don’t be too afraid, it’s a super fun journey. I’ve learned a TON so far, and have met some great people along the way (most on elmoto.net, but elsewhere as well).
Please let me know if i can help in any way. Good Luck! Let me know how your conversion goes!
…alex…
Hey, great project! I tore down my vf700f after converting it to electric. I though I’d mention that you should have no problem fitting the batteries.
I had 8 optima D34/78 batteries in the same area you plan to have your Thundersky pack. I have a suggestion and can email pictures if you need.
I built a battery holder which held three Optimas going through the bike and extending past the frame on each side 6″. The holder was constructed of angle iron the length of ~21″ and a width of~9″. I then welded two mounts to the front/inside frame area and welded to pieces (on the battery tray) of flat iron for rear mounts. I attached the rear mounts with bolts to existing brackets on the upper/mid frame. With a similar battery tray, you’d have room for about 20 cells. You’ll have tons of room left for even more batteries elsewhere…and be able to use the tank as a trunk.
Sorry, I meant 10 cells in the battery tray, but you can likely make adjustments to fit more.
Just came across your blog, you shoulda told me about this. Anyway I’ve added it to the blog & podcast directory at wwwatts.net – see: http://wwwatts.net/source/honda-vf500-interceptor-electric-conversion-electriceptor – if you have any questions just shoot me an email or talk with me at the next EAASV meeting. Hope to see you come to the meeting on the bike soon.